last-gasp

British  

noun

1. (modifier) done in desperation at the last minute

   a last-gasp attempt to save the talks

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last gasp Idioms  

1. The moment before death; also, the end. For example, “Fight till the last gasp” (Shakespeare, 1 Henry VI, 1:2), or He was determined to stay at the party until the last gasp. This idiom alludes to taking one's last breath, literally (first example) or figuratively (second example). [Late 1500s]

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Example Sentences

And last year England overtook France, as Elliot Daly glided in for a decisive last-gasp try in a 26-25 victory.

From BBC • Mar. 14, 2026

Spurs were humiliated by Atletico, Liverpool lost to Galatasaray – although Newcastle United can take credit as they were only denied victory by Barcelona's last-gasp penalty at St James' Park.

From BBC • Mar. 11, 2026

The playoff-chasing Orlando Magic edged another thriller against the Dallas Mavericks thanks to last-gasp heroics by Jalen Suggs.

From Barron's • Mar. 6, 2026

Finland eased the heartbreak of their last-gasp semi-final loss by winning the Olympic men's ice hockey bronze medal match 6-1 against Slovakia on Saturday.

From Barron's • Feb. 21, 2026

The 32-year-old's last-gasp goal takes Celtic within a point of Rangers - who drew 1-1 at Motherwell - in second and closer to Hearts, while O'Neill's side carry that game in hand over both.

From BBC • Feb. 11, 2026

Related Words

• do-or-die
• frantic
• last-gasp